Change your clock, test your smoke alarm

A NEW hard-hitting advertising campaign is urging people to make a potentially life-saving move when they change their clocks on the weekend of Sunday 30 October by taking a moment to test their smoke alarm too.

Turning the clocks back for an extra hour in bed will already be on the ‘to-do’ list for the majority of British households over the weekend, so why not add checking your smoke alarm to that list of things to do.

In Warwickshire last year there were 194 accidental fires in the home which resulted in two deaths and 18 injuries.

By supporting the national Fire Kills Campaign, Warwickshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service hope many more lives can be saved.

Community Safety and Youth Development Manager, Moreno Francioso said: “We’re all looking forward to getting that extra hour’s sleep at the end of British Summer Time, but knowing that your smoke alarm is in working order could help you sleep that little bit better.

“So as you put your clocks back on the 30th October, why not take an extra moment to push the button ? it could literally save your life!”

As well as testing your smoke alarm regularly, you can also keep your loved ones safe by following these simple steps:

●A working smoke alarm can buy you valuable time to get out, stay out and call 999. Make sure you fit one on every level of your home and test them regularly.

●Make testing your smoke alarm part of your household routine. Check the alarm by pressing the button regularly; change your battery once a year or invest in a 10-year alarm; and clean the alarm casing twice a year to ensure dust isn’t blocking the sensor.

●Whatever happens, never remove the battery in your smoke alarm.

●Make sure that everyone in your home knows what to do in a fire and practise your escape route.

If you want an extra nudge to test your smoke alarm regularly, try setting an automatic reminder. Safelincs, in partnership with the Fire Kills has created a free service that reminds you, by email or text, when it’s time to test your smoke alarm, change the battery or renew the unit. The service is completely free and can be cancelled at any time. www.safelincs.co.uk/reminders